A tragic incident at the Akwa Ibom State Custodial Centre in Uyo has left two inmates dead and two others injured after a transformer explosion sent a high-voltage wire crashing onto part of the facility.

The unfortunate event reportedly occurred about two weeks ago but was confirmed on Thursday by the State Controller of Corrections, Frank Okonkwo. According to eyewitness accounts and officials, a malfunctioning transformer suddenly exploded, causing a high-voltage cable to snap and fall directly on an area where the inmates were seated.

The impact of the electricity surge violently threw the victims from their seats. They were immediately given first aid by the prison’s medical team before being rushed to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where doctors pronounced two of them dead.

The explosion also caused widespread damage within the custodial centre. Electrical appliances, computers, equipment, and even staff quarters were reportedly destroyed as the power surge spread through the facility.

Officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), who inspected the site, said the transformer blew due to excessive voltage. Controller Okonkwo noted that this was not the first time the transformer had developed serious faults, calling on authorities to urgently address the recurring issue before more lives are put at risk.

The deceased inmates were awaiting trial for separate charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Okonkwo stressed that despite the allegations, the inmates were presumed innocent until proven guilty. Families of the victims have been contacted, though the corpses will only be released after investigations are completed.

He described the incident as a painful loss, not only to the families but also to the prison community.

Beyond the tragedy, the Controller revealed that the command is preparing a rehabilitation and empowerment programme for inmates nearing their release. Beneficiaries will receive starter packs in vocational skills such as tailoring, barbing, carpentry, and welding to help them reintegrate into society and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

The Uyo Custodial Centre, like many facilities under the Nigerian Correctional Service, has been grappling with challenges such as old infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, and overcrowding — issues that have made incidents like this even more devastating.